Words by Steve (Meggsy): Over the last few years,
the field behind 'The Woodman' Pub had become a Mecca for
firework enthusiasts from all over the UK and beyond.
This all came about when several years ago I offered to
help Raj at Newsbox Fireworks run a demo night, but as is
always the case we had nowhere to run the event. Having
made numerous enquiries I got an e-mail from Peter Benefield
of The Woodman Pub expressing interest. On calling him it
transpired he knew my name and was an old friend of my recently
deceased stepfather. When I explained what it was we wanted
to do, and I will never forget his words, his voice became
very excited and proclaimed 'Fucking fantastic I love fireworks,
do what you want, the field is yours!'. Well, not one to
refuse and invitation off we went.
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The Woodman Public
House, home of Peter and the St. George fireworks
competitions
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Peter's love of fireworks set in motion and made possible
a whole number of pyrotechnic events and it was his enthusiasm
over those early years that inspired me to arrange the first
St Georges Day Fireworks Competition and the rest, as they
say, is history. Peter's passing spells the end of an era
for many dedicated pyros, it seems the brewery will be installing
new owners soon, and in any event it wouldn't be the same
without Peter and his sister Joan's support and kindness.
When Peter was first diagnosed he told me that when he
passed away he wanted me to load his ashes into fireworks
and spread them across the field behind the pub, and that
he also wanted a nice display fired for all his family and
friends, he only ever discussed it with me and on one occasion
Julian (Rocket Rev) as he wanted it to be a surprise for
them.
I have been working with Jason (Flash) and Flashpoint Fireworks
since their early days and it's fair to say that over the
years we have cut our teeth on displays fired for Peter
at the pub. Therefore, it was his wish that Flashpoint and
I fire the display. Peter's sister told me the songs she
wanted played, which were Peter's favourites: 'Amazing Grace,
'Rocket Man' (Elton John - very appropriate), 'Sweet Caroline'
(Neil Diamond), and she also told me how much Peter had
loved 'Land of Hope and Glory' when we ended the competition
each year. We were given the green light for the display
just over a week before it was to happen, so we really had
to get our skates on.
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